Police cordon off the entrance to Waddeson Mano in Buckinghamshire, England, Britain on Nov. 17, 2017. Several people were killed on Friday in a mid-air collision between a helicopter and a light aircraft in Britain. (Xinhua/Stephen Chung)

LONDON, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Several people were killed on Friday in a mid-air collision between a helicopter and a light aircraft in Britain.

South Central Ambulance Service has confirmed "there have been a number of casualties at the scene."

Wreckage from both aircraft were discovered near the estate grounds of historic Waddesdon Manor near Winchendon, Buckinghamshire.

Witnesses said they heard a loud bang over woodland shortly after midday before realizing there was a mid-air collision. Both aircraft involved, which were flying at low altitude, had taken off from Wycombe Air Park, about 25 km to the south east of the estate.

Police threw up a massive cordon around the area to preserve the scene.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said fire and ambulance services are at the scene near Aylesbury and saving lives is first priority.

According to the spokesman, a fire brigade drone has been launched over the fallen wreckage looking for any survivors.

"The Air Accidents Investigation Branch has been informed and staff are en-route to the scene," said the spokesman.